The Many Health Powers of Inositol, Part 3

Disclaimer: Results are not guaranteed*** and may vary from person to person***.

Inositol may turn out to be a key natural supplement for women trying to deal with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Here I take a look at the facts and evidence.

PCOS is among the most common hormonal diseases in women during their reproductive period. It occurs in up to seven percent of women in this age group. The exact cause of PCOS is unknown at this point. However, insulin resistance, excessive exposure to androgens (male hormones) during fetal development, genetic influence, and low-grade inflammation are possible culprits. As the name implies, in many but not all women with PCOS, small multiple small cysts appear in the ovaries of these women. In addition to this abnormality, women with PCOS most commonly have abnormal menstrual period that may include one or more of the following symptoms:

— No menstrual period for more than four months
— Menstrual intervals longer than 35 days
— Fewer than eight menstrual cycles in a year
— Prolonged menstrual periods that may be heavy or scant

There are several other commonly observed conditions associated with PCOS.

— Obesity: Over 50% of women with PCOS are obese.

— Prediabetes/Type 2 Diabetes: Insulin resistance is a key feature of PCOS. It simply means that body tissues are resistant to insulin action (allowing the transport of glucose into the cells). As a consequence, blood insulin as well as glucose rise leading initially to prediabetes and eventually to type 2 diabetes.

— Acanthosis Nigricans: This skin condition is characterized by the presence of pigmented velvety skin underneath the breasts, in the vulva, on the inner thighs, in the armpits, and/or on the nape of neck.

— Infertility: The most common cause of female infertility is PCOS.

Current medical treatments of PCOS include the use of low-dose birth control pills and several types of drugs to regulate the menstrual cycle, reduce bodily hair growth and
induce ovulation. In the case that these medications fail to work, an outpatient surgical procedure, “laparoscopic ovarian drilling,” is another treatment option.

Here is what studies have shown with inositol on PCOS.

1999: In 22 patients, researchers tested 1,200 milligrams of inositol or placebo for six to eight weeks. Results: 1) Reduced area under the insulin curve meaning decrease in insulin resistance; 2) A reduction in free testosterone; 3) Lowering of both systolic and diastolic blood pressure; 4) A reduction in triglycerides; and 5) Of 22 patients, 19 ovulated.

2002: In 20 patients, researchers tested 600 milligrams of inositol or placebo for six to eight weeks. Results: 1) Reduced area under the insulin curve, meaning a decrease in insulin resistance; 2) A reduction in free testosterone: 3) Lowering of both systolic and diastolic blood pressure; 4) A reduction in serum triglycerides; and 5) Out of 10, six ovulated.

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Disclaimer: The information contained herein is for information purposes only and is not to be construed as a diagnosis, treatment, preventive, or cure for any disease, disorder, or abnormal physical state, nor should it be considered a substitute for medical care from your doctor. On any matter relating to your health or well-being—and prior to undertaking any health-related activity—consult an appropriate health professional. The opinions herein are exactly that, they are the opinions of the author. Doctors Health Press and its employees are not responsible for medically unsupervised activities that could be harmful to your health. Results are not guaranteed*** and may vary from person to person***. All of the Doctors Health Press publications come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with your newsletter, you can simply cancel your subscription and receive a pro-rated refund on all undelivered issues. For our books and special reports, we will give you a full refund of your purchase price within 30 days of your order. We pride ourselves on excellent customer service.

Disclaimer: The information contained herein is for information purposes only and is not to be construed as a diagnosis, treatment, preventive, or cure for any disease, disorder, or abnormal physical state, nor should it be considered a substitute for medical care from your doctor. On any matter relating to your health or well-being—and prior to undertaking any health-related activity—consult an appropriate health professional. The opinions herein are exactly that, they are the opinions of the author. Doctors Health Press and its employees are not responsible for medically unsupervised activities that could be harmful to your health. Results are not guaranteed*** and may vary from person to person***. All of the Doctors Health Press publications come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with your newsletter, you can simply cancel your subscription and receive a pro-rated refund on all undelivered issues. For our books and special reports, we will give you a full refund of your purchase price within 30 days of your order. We pride ourselves on excellent customer service.